A wildlife conservation charity site with a penguin colony, tigers, koalas and the Budongo Trail apes. Hilly paths require good walking shoes.
Edinburgh Zoo, operated by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, spreads across the slopes of Corstorphine Hill at 134 Corstorphine Road in western Edinburgh. As a wildlife conservation charity, it houses species from around the world within hillside enclosures reached by a steep network of paths. The penguin colony is a signature attraction, and the daily penguin parade, when the birds walk through the grounds, has long been a popular event, subject to weather and the zoo's schedule. Other highlights include tigers, koalas, giraffes, pygmy hippos and the Budongo Trail, a large ape habitat for chimpanzees with indoor and outdoor viewing areas. Keeper talks and feeding sessions run through the day, and the zoo publishes a timetable on arrival and online. The terrain is hilly, so walking shoes are important and visitors should plan their route to avoid doubling back uphill. A full visit takes three to four hours, and families often stay longer with a picnic or a stop at the cafes. The zoo is busiest on weekends, school holidays and sunny summer days, with queues for the penguin parade and the main entrance. Weekday mornings are calmer, and the animals are often most active in the morning. Lothian Buses run from Princes Street to Corstorphine Road in about 25 minutes. Ticket prices differ by season, so checking the official site for current prices and opening hours is recommended, since indoor houses can close earlier than the grounds.
| Admission | Adult online around £25-£30 (~$34-$40); child (3-15) around £14-£17.50 (~$19-$23); concession about £24.50 (~$33). Listed prices differ between sources, so confirm at edinburghzoo.org.uk. |
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| Hours | Oct-Mar daily 10:00-17:00 (Nov-Feb 10:00-16:00); Apr-Sep 10:00-18:00; indoor houses can close earlier |
| Typical visit | 3-4 hours |
| Best time | Weekday morning |
| Getting there | Lothian Buses from Princes Street towards Corstorphine Road (about 25 minutes; check lothianbuses.com). |
| Address | 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh EH12 6TS |
Location
134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh EH12 6TS
55.9425, -3.2686 View on map
Highlights
- Penguin colony and the penguin parade
- Budongo Trail ape habitat
- Tigers, koalas and giraffes
- Daily keeper talks and feeding sessions
- Hillside views from Corstorphine Hill
Tips for visiting
- Check the keeper talk and penguin parade times when you enter and plan the route around them.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the paths are steep.
- Buy tickets online to save time at the gate.
- Visit on a weekday morning when animals are active and queues are shorter.
- Take a bus from Princes Street rather than driving, as parking can be limited.
- Check closing times, as indoor houses may shut before the grounds.
When to visit
Weekday mornings are calmer and animals are more active. Summer weekends and school holidays are the busiest.
Accessibility
The zoo is built on a steep hillside, which makes some paths difficult for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Facilities and assistance options are listed by the zoo, and visitors should check before travelling.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Edinburgh Zoo take?
Plan for three to four hours, and longer with young children or a picnic.
Is it worth it for kids?
Yes, the penguins, tigers and koalas appeal to children, and child tickets are discounted for ages 3 to 15.
Is photography allowed?
Photography for personal use is allowed. Flash is usually discouraged near animals.
Is the zoo hilly?
Yes, the site is on a steep hillside, so a route plan and good shoes make the visit easier.